Released July 22, 2009
MANHATTAN, Kan. – Pulling out a board game on a snowy day might seem a winter staple, yet doing so during sizzling summer heat can offer cool entertainment, said Charles A. “Chuck” Smith, a Kansas State University Research and Extension child development specialist.
“Make game night fun night,” said Smith, who noted that playing games together can provide memorable experiences and help family and friends learn about each other in unexpected ways. A child can, for example, learn from observing strategizing.
Playing as a family does call for some considerations. Young children will prefer simple games that require luck (rolling dice or drawing a card), rather than strategy, said Smith, who suggested matching a game to a child’s age, interests and attention span.
Playing together can model sportsmanship and courtesy, help a child build math and goal setting skills, and a better understanding of being a gracious winner and loser, Smith said.
Should parents let a child win?
“No, allowing a child to win sets up unrealistic expectations,” said Smith, who noted that life is usually a combination of wins and losses.
Game construction will influence price, said Smith, who encourages buying games that test a variety of skills.
To survey games available in larger markets, he recommends http://www.boardgamegeek.com for descriptions and reviews of domestic and European games.
When introducing a new game, Smith suggested reading the rules and beginning with a 15- or 20-minute practice session to introduce the game and the rules to first-time players.
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